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The Battle of Boxtel was a battle fought during the French Revolutionary Wars in Flanders on the 15 September 1794. It is said that the origin of the nickname "Tommy" was founded during this battle.[citation needed] After a fierce engagement, the Arthur Wellesley, in command of the 33rd Regiment of Foot, spotted the best man-at-arms in the regiment, Private Thomas Atkins, terribly wounded. The private said "It's all right sir. It's all in a day's work," and died shortly after. British soldiers were from then on known as "Tommy" due to their cheerfulness and bravery.
